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Past to Present | American Hotel

One of my favorite things about exploring my city is learning about all the history and how things have changed over the years. It’s truly fascinating when you think about culture like that! Especially when there’s a building as cool as The American Hotel—this historic landmark is a perfect example of how Atlanta has grown and why the city is considered the Gem of the South.

Steeped In History

The American was downtown Atlanta’s first modern hotel when it was built in 1962. It was a big part of the Civil Rights Movement, serving as a safe haven for travelers and welcoming ALL people to stay there. To add to that, the hotel has hosted some very notable guests. Do Muhammad Ali, Elvis Presley, James Brown, and Martin Luther King Jr. sound familiar?? Yup, they, among other cultural figures have stayed at The American.

Retro Vibes

But a place that old, like any, was in need of some renovations as the years went on. So the hotel underwent $16 million in renovations bringing the storied past to the present with stunning mid-century modern design and super cute nostalgic furnishings. How do I know? Well… I got to attend the lovely grand re-opening event!

In the revamped American, the rooms are fabulously retro and so fun. I seriously could spend hours just soaking in the nostalgic vibes! And, the attention to detail is super impressive. Posh prints and patterns play in settings defined by classic decor that accessorize the space as if they were plucked from an era gone by. I’m talkin’ vintage-style mini fridges and 60’s car-themed headboards… and don’t even get me started on the poolside bar. It’s not your typical tiki—it’s an Airstream trailer! Sooo chic! The perfect backdrop to snap an impromptu poolside pic (or ten). 😉

Photo credit: Tony Benner Photography

Photo credit: Tony Benner Photography

Photo credit: Tony Benner Photography

If you prefer a more covert experience, you must visit The Cloakroom Kitchen & Bar, which pays tribute to the Cold War era. But classic eats and creative cocktails aren’t the only indulgence on the menu. Guests can get a taste-of-the-times courtesy of a “red phone” that lets you “spy in” on a high-stakes conversation between Kennedy and Khrushchev. Gasp!!!

The American Hotel’s inspiring history and its newly remodeled digs make it a true gem in downtown Atlanta. I love how vintage it all feels while still being hip and different. I can’t wait to spend a weekend getting to know more about this lovely lifestyle hotel! Now if you’ll excuse me I’ve got some throwback vibin’ to get back to. 😛

The newly revamped American Hotel is located at 160 Ted Turner Dr NW in downtown Atlanta, conveniently located just a hop-skip from Atlanta’s new Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia World Congress Center, Georgia Aquarium, and Philips Arena.

Oh, and don’t be surprised if you spot me lounging poolside with Mai-Tai in hand. 😉